I’M GONNA LIKE ME

Letting Off a Little Self-Esteem

Age Range: 3 - 6

Pub Date: Sept. 1st, 2002ISBN: 0-06-028761-6Publisher: HarperCollins

When things go right, it’s easy to feel good about oneself, but when things go the other way, sometimes it helps to have good self-esteem. From morning to night, the protagonists of this tale celebrate all there is to being individuals. “From my giant big toe to the braids on my head. I’m gonna like me . . . ” Fashion statements, academic accomplishments, honesty, and even bravery in the face of octopus soup are all worthy of praise. A good self-image can also help when giving the incorrect answer in school or when chosen last on the playground. Summarizing the source of their positive outlook, the children claim the best way to show love is to love oneself. The final double-page spread invites readers to join in the fun by expressing their own self-esteem. The text walks a thin line between positive and saccharine, but even with some missteps, the overall message is a good one. Watercolor illustrations of the humorous children splash across each double-paged spread giving the sometimes predictable story some life. Characters’ faces are wonderfully expressive and subtle details tucked into each painting will entertain watchful readers. Imaginative artwork keeps this from being forgettable. (Picture book. 3-6)